The decision, made by the Cabinet of Japan on Friday, marks a significant example of Japan's effort to enhance its relevance on the geopolitical stage.

The defense spending increase, which amounts to a substantial investment, highlights Japan's determination to strengthen its military capabilities. This decision comes in the backdrop of ongoing territorial disputes with the People's Republic of China and increased aggression exhibited by neighboring North Korea.

Japanese Foreign Minister, Fumio Kishida, emphasized that the decision to increase defense spending and lift the export ban does not alter Japan's principle as a pacifist nation. Their commitment to a peaceful approach remains unchanged. The move is seen as a necessary step to enhance deterrence and ensure the country's security in the face of growing regional challenges.

Immediately following the change in policy, Japan made its first lethal weapons export by dispatching Patriot-guided missiles to the United States. Earlier, the missiles were manufactured in Japan under a US license. This export emphasizes Japan's willingness to strengthen military cooperation with its allies, particularly the United States.

The approval by the Japanese government is another step towards the full remilitarization of Japan, which initially renounced its right to wage war in its post-World War II Constitution under the guidance of US occupying administrators. The scope, scale, and speed of Japan's security reforms have been described as unprecedented by U.S. Ambassador Rahm Emanuel on social media. Emanuel also highlighted the change as a significant example of Japan's shared commitment to deterrence.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which holds considerable power in Japan's government, is leading the effort to reform the country's demilitarized status. Their aim is to ensure Japan's preparedness to face the changing geopolitical landscape and safeguard its national interests effectively.

With this move, Japan seeks to establish itself as a more influential player in regional security matters. The country's increased defense spending and resumption of lethal weapon exports indicate its determination to address and respond to emerging threats actively.

Japan's latest military reforms may have significant implications for the region, as neighboring countries closely watch the developments and reassess their own defense strategies. As Japan takes steps towards building a more formidable military, the international community remains cautious, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to peaceful principles.

As Japan reshapes its defense landscape, it is expected that the country will continue to tread cautiously, considering the sensitivities and concerns of its neighboring nations. The road to a fully modernized military will require meticulous planning and diplomacy to strike a balance between bolstering national security and maintaining regional stability.